I was thinking about what you said the other day about hiking trails in the area. I finally checked out that one you mentioned near the lake. It was really nice actually - not too crowded on a weekday morning. The trail was well maintained and there were some great viewpoints about halfway through. I brought my dog along and she loved splashing around in the small creek that runs parallel to the path for about a mile. There's a bench near the top where you can sit and look out over the whole valley. I think you'd really enjoy it if you haven't been yet. The parking situation was fine too, there's a small lot that fits about fifteen cars. I got there around 7am and it was only half full. The morning light filtering through the trees was beautiful. I'll send you some photos if I can find them. Let me know if you want to go together sometime.

Thanks for the suggestion about the podcast. I finally listened to a few episodes during my commute this week and it's really engaging. The host has a great way of telling stories that keeps you interested even when the topic isn't something you'd normally think about. I started with the episode about the old library and got hooked immediately. The production quality is impressive too - the music and sound design add a lot without being distracting. I've already recommended it to a couple of friends. I still have about four episodes left in the series so please don't tell me what happens next. I'm curious if you've listened to the one about the abandoned amusement park yet. That was probably my favorite so far. The way they described the old roller coaster and the overgrown pathways really stuck with me. Anyway, thanks again for the recommendation. I owe you one.